Dutch East India Company Sea Chest, Dated 1725

A large eighteenth century iron bound six-plank sea chest or strong box inscribed with the VOC symbol of the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie), and dated 1725. I believe this is made from camphor wood as it smells incredible when you open it.

I love things like this as knowing it was most likely used for carrying goods or personal belongings on sea voyages makes me wonder where it’s been, what it’s held, who has lugged it around. At three hundred years old, I’m sure it would have some tales to tell…

It is of simple six plank construction with chunky dovetail corner joints, and iron reinforcement straps and carrying handles. It is certainly not a fancy piece of furniture, but I often think simple is best and this has a certain honest charm about it. The back is not as ‘finished’ as the front and sides, but not to the extent that it couldn’t be used as a coffee table (for example) if desired.

Condition: One of the metal bands on the front bottom edge has been lost, and the lock plate has been altered. The hinges have been replaced and there has been some wood filled in which can be seen from the rear. Someone has covered the hinges with paper on the inside - I can only assume this is because they have rough edges and were catching on things. We have left the paper in place but it could be removed if desired. The handles appear to be original and are useable. Some additional pieces of timber have been added to the underside of the lid at each end.

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This is an antique item and as such may have signs of wear in accordance with its age. Anything that we think is of note will have been mentioned above, but please study the photos carefully to satisfy yourself as to its condition as it is not possible to list every little mark or flaw. We are happy to provide high resolution photographs or videos if required, and answer any questions you may have - just get in touch! We accept returns for all items providing the item is returned in the same condition as when it was sent. The cost of any return postage or delivery is the responsibility of the buyer, unless the item has arrived damaged or has not been described accurately.